Can you lock out the surge brake on a M416A1? What's this hole?

[2ndchance]

I noticed that there is a hole that goes through the surge brake setup. What is this for? When I look through here, it looks as if I stuck a steel rod through this, it would lock out the surge brake. Is this what it's for? The biggest gripe I hear form M416A1 owners is that when they try backing up uphill, the surge brake engages and prevents the trailer from rolling. Could this possibly be some kind of lockout? I am hesitant to try, as I don't want to break anything.

 

[wsucougarx]

Yes that will lock out the surge brake. By sticking a bolt through this hole, it'll stop the travel of the lunette assy rearward. I too have locked out the surge brake. You won't brake anything (no pun intended ). Be sure to use at least a Grade 5 or Grade 8 bolt for this application. If you use a "soft" bolt it may bend and will be a headache to remove.

 

[2ndchance]

Ah.. that is GOOD information! Thanks!

 

[Datajockeys]

Your local tractor store may have a pin that you can use as well. They often have a quick release mechanism of some sort on it.

 

[rosco]

By all means, use a hardened hitch pin, or at least a Grade 8 bolt. Locking out the brakes is part of the program for surge brakes. The pin should be handy too! You seldom need it on Highway driving, but you might in sand, snow, mud, or as you mentioned, backing uphill.

 

[steelandcanvas]

We need to make this a sticky.